SPOILER ALERT: This article includes spoilers for “Adolescence,” currently available on Netflix.
The third episode of Netflix’s limited series “Adolescence” focuses on Jamie (Owen Cooper) and Briony (Erin Doherty). Jamie is a 13-year-old schoolboy accused of murder, while Briony is the clinical psychologist assigned to conduct his pre-trial evaluation.
What sets “Adolescence” apart is its unique format; director Philip Barantini filmed each episode in one continuous take. The audience witnesses an intense exchange as Briony seeks to uncover the truth, oscillating between light-hearted dialogue and a darker tonal shift as Jamie’s youthful innocence transforms into frustration.
Achieving the final version of the episode took Barantini and the crew 11 takes before they captured the right performance.
Doherty lauded Cooper’s impressive acting debut, stating her pride in his growth throughout the 11 takes. She noted a specific moment when Cooper’s nuanced performance was so compelling it felt “genuinely scary.” Currently, she is performing in “Unicorn” in London and shared her thoughts with Variety via Zoom.
Discussing the experience of the show’s success, Doherty expressed a mix of gratitude and excitement about participating in such an impactful narrative, believing that the themes resonate with audiences and foster important conversations.
She recounted her first discussions with her colleague Stephen about the project, recalling his enthusiasm for the concept before it was even written. She appreciated the collaborative atmosphere during the rehearsal process, emphasizing the importance of bonding as a team to breathe life into the characters.
Reflecting on her character, Briony, Doherty stated that her aim was to present therapists as relatable and transformative individuals rather than the conventional guarded archetype. This involved drawing on her own therapy experience to represent the emotional depth needed for the role, ensuring a genuine portrayal.
In conclusion, Doherty described the emotional toll of the character, revealing that she found it challenging to shift out of Briony following intense scenes. However, her pride in participating in such a crucial narrative allowed her to gradually release the character as she transitioned into different roles.
